1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse Engine not starting

Tiny
BOBBELLECI
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE
  • 2.0L
  • 4 CYL
  • FWD
  • MANUAL
  • 155,000 MILES
Brand new battery, alternator tested and works, starter tested and works. When I first put the new battery in the car I also replaced the positive cable end by cutting the original off and replacing it. So there is a new and solid connection to the positive terminal. At first, it started quickly, but within a few weeks it slowly and increasingly took longer to start. Thinking there might be a problem with the battery, I had it tested at two different auto stores (Pepboys, O'reilys). Both said the battery, only 2 months old was in perfect shape. Fully charged. A store employee (one who sold me the battery) suggested that there might be another issue like a switch or sensor. I was also told that the battery would recharge on a 20 minute drive if the alternator was working. So, I take it for a 30 minute drive, stop and turn it off, try starting it, but to no avail. It was starting at moderate outside temps: 60, 70's, but 90's 100's would not. I also have a radiator leak so I'll refill the radiator at destinations. Now I have to push start everywhere to get it going. Fortunately it's a manual trans w/clutch. Is it possible a sensor or electronic switch has gone bad? Thanks
Sunday, July 19th, 2015 AT 9:32 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
KHLOW2008
  • MECHANIC
  • 41,814 POSTS
First thing you need to test is the battery condition when it fails to start. When it is fully charged, it did not cause any problem but after running the vehicle and when you could not start, what was the battery voltage?

The alternator was tested good, under what condition? After running the vehicle, was the charging tested just before you turned the engine off?

A bad harmonic damper or loose belting can result in inefficient charging. Some alternators might charge correctly for a short period of time and starts to fail later.
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Monday, July 20th, 2015 AT 10:15 AM

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